Andrew Alderson breaks down the best bits from the second day of the second test between the Black Caps and Pakistan in Dubai.
Important moment:
Any sense of ascendancy from the opening day was removed 17 balls into the first session when Latham was caught behind to Rahat Ali with the new ball. Rahat pitched up and was rewarded with late movement. New Zealand's dreams of 500-plus were squandered.
Best shot:
Ish Sodhi danced down the wicket and lofted Zulfiqar Babar for a straight six to bring up New Zealand's 400. The timing and technique showcased his batting perfectly. It can't be long before he's inserted before Tim Southee.
Ball of the day:
Sodhi's delivery that sidestepped through the gate of Shan Masood. He found the rough, a greedy seam took hold and the ball charged. The leg spinner showed a healthy balance of aggression and intelligence, making Masood ponder a googly earlier in the over.
That's quirky:
There's been a club match feel on several occasions when a six is hit. Pakistan players were forced to fetch the ball from between the rows of seats because there was no-one in 'the crowd' to throw it back.
Tweet as:
Sports Freak @Sportsfreakconz
Play hasn't even started yet and we've already had Danny Morrison doing the moon walk
Stats all:
This is the highest test score New Zealand have made in the first innings of a test away against Pakistan. The next best was 348 in 1955 at Lahore when they eventually lost. On the three occasions New Zealand have scored over 400 batting in the second innings, they have drawn the test.
Testometer:
Pakistan gain ground but still 75:25 in New Zealand's favour after some inspired final overs.